Concentrations Of Aqueous Extract Research Articles

Mitochondrial resilience and antioxidant defence against HIV-1: unveiling the power of Asparagus racemosus extracts and Shatavarin IV.

Asparagus racemosus (AR), an Ayurvedic botanical, possesses various biological characteristics, yet its impact on HIV-1 replication remains to be elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of AR root extracts and its principal bioactive molecule, Shatavarin IV (Shatavarin), on HIV-1 replication and their role in mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction during HIV-1 infection, utilizing both in vitro and in silico methodologies. The cytotoxicity of the extracts was evaluated using MTT and ATPlite assays. In vitro anti-HIV-1 activity was assessed in TZM-bl cells against X4 and R5 subtypes, and confirmed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells using HIV-1 p24 antigen capture ELISA and viral copy number assessment. Mechanistic insights were obtained through enzymatic assays targeting HIV-1 Integrase, Protease and Reverse Transcriptase. Shatavarin's activity was also validated via viral copy number and p24 antigen capture assays, along with molecular interaction studies against key HIV-1 replication enzymes. HIV-1 induced mitochondrial dysfunction was evaluated by detecting mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium accumulation, mitochondrial potential, and caspase activity within the infected cells. Non-cytotoxic concentrations of both aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts derived from Asparagus racemosus roots displayed dose-dependent inhibition of HIV-1 replication. Notably, the hydroalcoholic extract exhibited superior Reverse Transcriptase activity, complemented by moderate activity observed in the Protease assay. Molecular interaction studies revealed that Shatavarin IV, the key bioactive constituent of AR, formed hydrogen bonds within the active binding pocket site residues crucial for HIV replication enzyme catalysis, suggesting its potential in attenuating HIV-1 infection. Mitochondrial dysfunction induced by HIV-1 infection, marked by increased oxidative stress, mitochondrial calcium overload, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and elevated caspase activity, was effectively mitigated by treatment with AR extracts and Shatavarin IV. These findings underscore the potential of AR extracts and Shatavarin IV as antiviral agents, while enhancing mitochondrial function during HIV-1 infection. In conclusion, Asparagus racemosus extracts, particularly Shatavarin IV, demonstrate promising inhibitory effects against HIV-1 replication while concurrently ameliorating mitochondrial dysfunction induced by the virus. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of AR extracts and Shatavarin in combating HIV-1 infection and improving mitochondrial health.

Improving the sensory and chemical characteristics of functional yogurt fortified with cardamom extract (<i>Elettaria cardamomum</i> L.)

Abstract: This study aimed to assess the effects of aqueous cardamom extract on chemical and sensory qualities of yogurt fortified with cardamom extract. Four different concentrations of cardamom extract (100, 150, 200, and 250 μg.L-1) were incorporated into yogurt, along with a control group without adding cardamom. The moisture content, total protein, carbohydrates, pH, peroxide value, and sensory properties (taste, flavor, and smell) were evaluated. The results show that cardamom extract had no significant effect on the moisture, protein, or carbohydrate content of yoghurt when compared to the control. However, a drop in lipid, pH and peroxide value was seen in cardamom-fortified yoghurt, indicating enhanced lipid quality. Treatments supplemented with 200 and 250 μg.L-1 of extract showed the highest sensory scores. Overall, this study suggests that aqueous cardamom extract holds promise as a functional ingredient to improve yogurt quality and sensory qualities, potentially providing health benefits to consumers. Background: Yogurt is typically processed from cream, milk, or partially or completely skimmed milk, and may include additional ingredients such as vitamins, skimmed milk powder, lactose, lactalbumin, lactoglobulin, or modified whey. Cardamom encompasses two plant varieties, Elettaria and Amomum, belonging to the ginger family. These types are triangular in cross-section, bear seeds in bundles, and possess a thin outer membrane encasing black seeds. Whole milk yogurt was fortified with four different concentrations of aqueous cardamom extract. A control group of plain whole milk yogurt without additives was also prepared. The chemical and sensory properties of yogurt types were analyzed immediately after manufacturing and storage for 1, 3 and 7 days at 5 ±1 °C. Objective: This study aimed to explore the effects of aqueous cardamom extract on chemical and sensory qualities, which are critical for functional foods, of functional yogurt made from raw, whole cow's milk. Four concentrations (100, 150, 200, and 250 μg.L-1) of cardamom extract were incorporated into yogurt, along with a control group without added cardamom. The moisture content, total protein, carbohydrates, pH, peroxide value, and sensory properties (taste, flavor, and smell) were evaluated. Materials and Methods: Raw, whole cow's milk was used to make yogurt production in the laboratory. Five kilograms of raw, full-fat cow's milk was heated for 10 minutes at 90 °C, then cooled to 42 °C and divided into two parts. The first was divided into four fractions, each receiving a different concentration of cardamom extract: 100, 150, 200, and 250 μg/L, representing treatments T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The second part remained untreated and served as the control treatment (C) for yogurt production.

Ethiopian coffee (Coffea arabica) improves glucose uptake and modulates metabolic enzyme activities linked to hyperglycemia-induced infertility in isolated rats’ testes

The present study evaluated the inhibitory effect of Ethiopian coffee (Coffea arabica) on carbohydrate digestive enzymes and its protective effect against glucose-induced testicular dysfunction using in vitro and in silico study models. Testicular oxidative stress was initiated by co-incubating testocular tissue collected from male Sprague-Dawley rats in glucose solution with different concentrations of Ethiopian coffee aqueous extracts (hot and cold) for 2 h at 37ºC. Glucose-mediated oxidative stress significantly (p < 0.05) depleted reduced glutathione and total glycogen levels while it lowered catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the testicular tissue. Concomitantly, this led to elevated malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels while it also increased glycogen phosphorylase, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, ATPase, and acetylcholinesterase activities. Treatment with different concentrations of coffee aqueous extracts restored the enzymes’ and markers’ levels and activities. Although both the cold and hot coffee extracts strongly inhibited α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes, the former showed better activities. The subjection of the coffee extracts to LC-MS analysis indicated the presence of several compounds, including chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, cafestol, kahweol, caffeine, quinic acid, ferulic acid, and catechol which were further docked with the carbohydrate digestive enzymes. The in silico results displayed that among the various metabolites, chlorogenic acid strongly interacted and had the best binding affinity with α-glucosidase and α-amylase. Our findings implied that Ethiopian coffee may have a preventive effect against glucose-induced testicular damage. These are evidenced by the capacity of the plant product to decrease oxidative stress and protect against testicular dysfunction.Graphical

Effect of the exposure period and concentration of aqueous and alcoholic zingiber (Zingiber officinale) extract on the mean of mortality for hydatid cyst's protocolises.

To determine the anti-protocolises effect of aqueous and alcoholic zingiber extract. The present experimental study was conducted from 01, July 2021 to 15. December, 2021 at the College of Education for Pure Sciences, Iraq, and comprised 25mg/mL, 50mg/mL, 100mg/mL and 200mg/mL concentrations of both aqueous and alcoholic extracts of zingiber officinale that were prepared and used in vitro on hydatid cyst protocolises with 10min, 20min, 30min, 40min, 50min and 60min exposure times. The data was analysed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 10 by using ANOVA and t- test to determine the differences between groups. The concentration of 200mg/ml was more efficient against the protocolises for aqueous extract, while the alcoholic extract was effective at both 100mg/ml and 200mg/ml concentrations. There was a positive relationship of the degree of killing with both exposure time and concentration. Zingiber officinale could be a potential bioactive natural product and its active constituents could be isolated and used as anti-protoscolex without any side effects.

Exploring the Potential of Turmeric as a Natural Antibacterial Agent: In Vitro Evaluation of Crude Paste and Aqueous Extract

Background: There is growing concern in the use of natural antimicrobial compounds due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. One such contender is turmeric (Curcuma longa), an herb known for its usage in medicine for centuries; nowadays, however, its prospects in pharmacology are being actively discussed. Since access and utilization of modern health care is scarce in Bangladesh, such natural cures are worth researching. Objective: To assess the in vitro antibacterial activity of turmeric’s crude paste and aqueous extract against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Methods: The study was carried out in the Department of Pharmacology with the collaboration of Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Bangladesh, over a period of one year from July 2010 to June 2011, and it consisted of three experiments: Effects of crude turmeric paste incorporated in nutrient agar media, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Aqueous Turmeric Extract and Amikacin by broth dilution method, and Subculture method to confirm bactericidal effect. Results: CTP demonstrated effective growth of S. aureus at 10% concentration and E. coli at 30% concentration. The MIC of ATE was found to be 800 μg/ml for S. aureus and 2000 μg/ml for E. coli. The MIC for amikacin was 10 μg/ml for both organisms. These effects have been further substantiated in subculture studies regarding their bactericidal properties. Conclusion: From the findings of the current study, it is evident that both turmeric and its crude paste had profound antibacterial effects against S. aureus and E. coli, though the effect of crude paste was observed to be stronger than that of the aqueous extract. Although not as strong as Amikacin, its organic nature and possibility of side effects make it worth pursuing. Hence, this work adds to the literature on the fact that turmeric has health benefits as highlighted by traditional medical practice and points to the need to find new natural sources of .............

Hermetic effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract mitigates salinity stress in maize by modulating photosynthetic efficiency, and antioxidant activities

Salinity poses a significant constraint to cereal productivity particularly in arid and semiarid regions. The application of allelochemical has shown promising results in mitigating the intensity of abiotic stresses. A pot experiment was conducted to assess the efficacy of different concentrations of aqueous allelopathic extract derived from moringa leaves in mitigating the adverse impacts of salinity on the germination and growth of maize cultivars via seed priming. The study involved three variables: two cultivars of maize, ‘Pioneer 30Y87’ (salt tolerant) and ‘Pioneer 30T60’ (salt sensitive) e seed priming with moringa leaf extract (MLE) at varying concentrations of 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%, 2.5%, 3.0%, and hydro-priming as control; and different salinity levels of 0, 6, and 12 dS m-1. Salinity had a negative impact on the germination process, leading to delayed and suboptimal growth of seedlings. Additionally, salinity reduced the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments (20-50%), photosynthesis, transpiration, internal carbon, and stomatal conductance. Further, MLE also improved the antioxidant activities (catalase: CAT and peroxidase: POD) by 22-56% which reduced the hydrogen peroxide production. Moreover, ‘P-30Y87’ exhibited favorable performance in terms of better germination, growth, photosynthesis and antioxidant activities. The application of moringa leaf extract (3%) resulted in a more notable hermetic effect in elevating salinity stress thereby enhancing germination, growth, photosynthesis and antioxidant activities. In the conclusion, application of MLE (3%) is a promising approach to mitigate the adverse impacts of salinity by improving germination, growth, photosynthesis and antioxidant activities.

Mycotoxicity of leaf extract of Tabernaemontana pachysiphon Stapf against Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht, a postharvest fungal rot pathogen of taro

Taro, otherwise known as cocoyam, is one of the major sources of calories in the tropics. However, losses of its corm during storage are high, partly due to pathogenic diseases. Fusarium oxysporum is one of the principal fungal pathogens causing about 50% of postharvest losses of taro corms in the tropics. The rise in pesticide-resistant fungal pathogens, amongst other factors, has necessitated the recent search for alternatives to synthetic pesticides. This work aimed to evaluate the effects of six concentrations (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) of aqueous leaf extract of T. pachysiphon on spore germination, mycelial growth and reproduction of F. oxysporum both in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro experiment was conducted using the poison bait technique, while the in vivo experiment involved 21 corms (200 g) artificially infected with F. oxysporum and treated with the respective concentrations of the test extracts or griseofulvin. The control consisted of fungus-infected corms only. Generally, the experiments consisted of 7 treatments replicated 3 times and were laid out in a completely randomized design. Results of the cultures studies showed that all aqueous extract of T. pachysiphon significantly (P&lt; 0.05) and to varying degrees impeded spore germination (56.38–70.24%) and retarded radial growth of the pathogen (68.27–82.01%). The percentage rot expression in the living tissues treated with the extracts ranged between 19.4% and 40.4%. All results were statistically (P&lt; 0.05) superior to the control but comparable to the results (75.06%, 86.41%, and 17.2%) obtained with griseofulvin for these features, respectively. The inhibitions were linearly correlated with the dose of application of the biotoxicant both in vitro and in vivo.

Hallazgos histopatológicos en nematodos Anisakidae, expuestos a extractos acuosos vegetales con capacidad nematicida &lt;i&gt;in vitro&lt;/i&gt;

Objetive. Expose nematodes of the Anisakidae family to different aqueous extracts and identify the aqueous extracts with nematicidal capacity. Material and methods. The concentrations of the bioactive compounds of the aqueous extracts of epazote (Dysphania ambrosioides), onion (Allium cepa), siempre viva (Kalanchoe pinnata) and xoconostle (Opuntia oligacantha) were identified. Live parasites of the Anisakidae family were obtained from Lisa fish (Mugilidae), to be exposed to different concentrations of aqueous extracts. Results. K. pinnata and O. oligocantha presented a higher concentration of bioactive components of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins; as well as in the antioxidant activity of DPPH and ABTS. Parasite mortality occurred at a concentration of 855 mg/mL for K. pinnata of 100% at 48 hours, and in pulp and whole fruit of O. oligacantha, with mortality of 66% at 72 hours. The main histopathological changes caused by K. pinnata were muscle vacuoles; the whole fruit of O. oligocantha degeneration of the intestinal epithelium and vacuolization; the seed caused edema, intestinal degeneration, and vacuolization. Conclusions. The results indicate that the use of aqueous extracts of K. pinnata and O. oligacantha on nematodes of the Anisakidae family are an option for their use as nematicidal agents.

Effects of Individual and Combined Applications of Seaweed Extracts and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on Plant Growth and Physio-Biochemical Properties of Soft Wheat and Faba Bean

ABSTRACT The research on carbon materials and plants primarily focuses on their use in soil, showing variable effects. However, significant gaps exist regarding their impact under stress conditions (such as drought, salinity, etc.) and their interactions with plant physiological processes. Long-term effects on plant health and ecosystems are understudied, as are their interactions with other biofertilizers like algae extracts and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of seaweed extracts and PGPR on plant growth and some physio-biochemical properties of soft wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and faba bean (Vicia faba L.). Two concentrations of aqueous extract from two seaweeds, Fucus spiralis (F) and Ulva rigida (U), and the PGPR bacillus strain solution S48 (S48S) were used either individually or in combination. All treatments were applied as foliar sprays. The findings showed that the combined application of Fucus spiralis extract [25%] (F), Ulva rigida extract [50%] (U), along with the PGPR S48 bacillus strain solution (S48S) promoted plant growth (50.93 cm for faba bean) and root development (17.90 cm for wheat). This treatment also resulted in increased chlorophyll content (3.25 mg/g Fresh Weight (FW) in soft wheat and 3.93 mg/g FW in faba bean), proteins (14.66 µg/mg FW in soft wheat and 23.79 µg/mg FW in faba bean), amino acids (0.46 mg/g FW in soft wheat and 0.56 mg/g FW in faba bean), and total carbohydrates (529.8 µg/ml in soft wheat and 340.7 µg/ml in faba bean) as compared to controls. On the other hand, the nitrate reductase activity was enhanced by seaweed extract application in both crops. Phosphorus (P) uptake by soft wheat and faba bean was significantly improved following the application of Ulva rigida extract [50%] (U), the PGPR S48 bacillus strain solution (S48S), and the co-treatment of Fucus spiralis extract [25%] (F) with the PGPR S48 bacillus strain solution (S48S). The findings suggest that the combined application of Fucus spiralis extract (F) and Ulva rigida extract (U) with the PGPR S48 bacillus strain solution (S48S) can significantly improve plant growth and nutrient absorption in durum wheat and faba bean. This offers a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, reducing pollution and promoting healthier ecosystems. Furthermore, these biological treatments enhance plant resilience to abiotic stresses, potentially increasing yields in challenging conditions. By reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, these practices can save money for farmers and advance sustainable agriculture.

A comparative study of in-vivo wound healing properties of Tithonia Diversifolia. A gray crude extracts to Silver Sulphadiazine in Albino Wistar rats.

One species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family is Tithonia diversifolia A. Gray (T. diversifolia), which grows as a shrub or weed. Significant anti-infective therapeutic characteristics, such as anti-mycobacterial, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-malaria, and anthelmintic effects, have been discovered in the plant's extracts. Ethnic communities have been using the plant extract to cure wounds. They appear to prefer it above conventional treatments in many circumstances, to the point where their aqueous solution may be smuggled into medical institutions in order to augment the care provided. The purpose of this study was to compare T. diversifolia with silver sulphadiazine's capacity for wound healing. For 72 hours, a 70% ethanol alone and water alone was used to extract the plant. After the extracts dried out, the powder was measured and 10 mL of reconstituted volume was assessed at various concentrations for the purpose of treating wounds. Silver sulphadiazine was used as the positive control and distilled water as the negative control. According to the findings, the aqueous extract had a 48.0% healing rate after 14 days of treatment, ethanol had a 20.0% healing rate, and silver sulphadiazine had a 22.0% healing rate. It is possible to draw the conclusion that the aqueous extract concentration of 0.6 mg/10 mL demonstrated a higher healing percentage than silver sulphadiazine and the ethanol extract.

АЛЛЕЛОПАТИЧЕСКАЯ АКТИВНОСТЬ ТРЕХРЕБЕРНИКА НЕПАХУЧЕГО (TRIPLEUROSPERMUM INODORUM (L.) SCH. BIP.)

The purpose of reseach was to study the allelopathic activity of T. inodorum in laboratory conditions against seeds and seedlings of watercress (Lepidium sativum L.). Objectives: to identify the effect of aqueous extracts of different concentrations of the dry aerial part of T. inodorum on the dynamics of germination and the initial growth of test plant seedlings; to compare the allelopathic effects of T. inodorum identified by two biotesting methods. We used classical methods for determining the allelopathic activity of plants by biotesting on seeds and seedlings of higher plants. The preparation of a concentrated (1 : 25) aqueous extract was carried out using the hot extraction method (4 g of the above-ground part of the three-rib was poured into 100 ml of boiling water and infused for 1 hour). By successively diluting the initial extract, solutions of lower concentrations were obtained (1: 50, 1: 100 and 1: 200). The results obtained indicate a high allelopathic activity of aqueous extracts of the dry aerial part of T. inodorum, which is expressed in a decrease in seed germination and inhibition of seedling growth. With an increase in the concentration of aqueous extracts of three-ribs, the sizes of the root and hypocotyl naturally decrease. Moreover, the most sensitive organ of the test plant is the root, the size of which at the weakest concentration (1: 200) decreases by almost 2 times, while the size of the hypocotyl decreases slightly. A more clear concentration dose-effect relationship was shown by the results of biotesting for root elongation. As the concentration of extracts increases, the size of watercress roots gradually decreases, and the toxicity index of aqueous extracts increases from 21.4 to 86.6 %.

INFLUENCE OF ULTRAFINE PARTICLES OF SILICON IV OXIDE (SiO2) AND OAK BARK EXTRACT ON BACTERIAL LUMINESCENCE

Background. Phytobiotic additives and ultrafine particles (UFP), especially of metallic nature, are increasingly used in agriculture as fertilizers and components of feed additives. However, there is very little data about the effect of non-metallic UFP. In particular, silicon-containing UFP have shown high efficiency as plant growth stimulators under stress conditions, but whether they can act as antibacterial agents or as protective agents in microbial ecosystems is unknown. Therefore, the aim of the presented work is to evaluate positive and negative reactions of the model luminescent microorganism Escherichia coli K12 TG1 when exposed to suspensions of silicon IV oxide (SiO2) in various concentrations both in pure form and in combination with phytobiotic additive – oak bark extract. Materials and methods. The luminescence intensity of the recombinant strain of Echerichia coli of the natural marine microorganism Photobacterium leiongnathi with cloned luxCDABE-genes under the influence of concentrations (0.5-0.00024 M) of UFP SiO2 and aqueous extract of oak bark (2-1024 multiples) was studied. Results. It was found that UFP in pure form stimulate bacterial luminescence by 252.2 % with respect to the control in the stationary phase of growth at 0.5 mol/L. They also act as protectors of intracellular metabolism, reducing the inhibitory effect of oak bark extract. The latter in pure form suppresses more than 50 % of bacterial luminescence up to 4-fold dilution (12.5 mg/mL), which determines the possibility of its use as an alternative to antibiotic drugs. Conclusion. UFP SiO2 have pronounced protective properties with respect to microbial community.

Impact of wildfire ash on skin and gut microbiomes and survival of Rana dybowskii

Climate change and human activities escalate the frequency and intensity of wildfires, threatening amphibian habitats and survival; yet, research on these impacts remains limited. Wildfire ash alters water quality, introduces contaminants, and may disrupt microbial communities, impacting gut and skin microbiota; however, the effects on gut and skin microbiota remain unclear. Rana dybowskii were exposed to five concentrations (0 g L-1, 1.25 g L-1, 2.5 g L-1, 5 g L-1, and 10 g L-1) of aqueous extracts of wildfire ashes (AEAs) for 30 days to assess AEAs' metal content, survival, and microbiota diversity via Illumina sequencing. Our results showed that the major elements in ash were Ca > K > Mg > Al > Fe > Na > Mn, while in AEA they were K > Ca > Na > Mg > As > Al > Cu. A significant decrease in amphibian survival rates with increased AEA concentration was shown. The beta diversity analysis revealed distinct shifts in microbiota composition. Notably, bacterial genera associated with potential health risks showed increased abundance in skin microbiota, emphasising the potential for ash exposure to affect amphibian health. Functional prediction analyses revealed significant shifts in metabolic pathways related to health and disease, indicating that wildfire ash exposure may influence amphibian health through changes in microbial functions. This study highlights the urgent need for strategies to mitigate wildfire ash impacts on amphibians, as it significantly alters microbiota and affects their survival and health.

Antioxidant and Antifungal Properties of Cinnamon, Cloves, Melia azedarach L. and Ocimum gratissimum L. Extracts against Fusarium oxysporum Isolated from Infected Vegetables in Mauritius.

Fusarium species, a group of economically destructive phytopathogens, are poorly studied in Mauritius where agriculture holds much significance. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of organic farming has prompted interest in alternatives to chemical fungicides. After gaining an overview of Fusarium prevalence in Mauritius fields through a survey, the pathogen was isolated from infected crops and identified based on morphological and molecular characteristics. Methanol and water extracts were then prepared from Melia azedarach, Ocimum gratissimum, cinnamon and cloves before determining their phytochemical profiles. Additionally, the antioxidant and antifungal effects of different concentrations of aqueous extracts were assessed. The isolate was confirmed as Fusarium oxysporum, and cloves inhibited its growth by up to 100%, especially at 60 and 90 g/L, with the results being significantly higher than those of the synthetic fungicide mancozeb. Over 50% inhibition was also noted for cinnamon and Ocimum gratissimum, and these effects could be linked to the flavonoids, phenols and terpenoids in the extracts. This study presented the aqueous extracts of cloves, cinnamon and Ocimum gratissimum as potential alternatives to chemical fungicides. It also confirmed the prevalence of Fusarium infection in Mauritius fields, thereby highlighting the need for additional studies on the pathogen.

Phytomediated stress modulates antioxidant status, induces overexpression of CYP6M2, Hsp70, α-esterase, and suppresses the ABC transporter in Anopheles gambiae (sensu stricto) exposed to Ocimum tenuiflorum extracts.

The incorporation of phytoactive compounds in the management of malarial vectors holds promise for the development of innovative and efficient alternatives. Nevertheless, the molecular and physiological responses that these bioactive substances induce remain underexplored. This present study investigated the toxicity of different concentrations of aqueous and methanol extracts of Ocimum tenuiflorum against larvae of Anopheles gambiae (sensu stricto) and unraveled the possible underlying molecular pathways responsible for the observed physiological effects. FTIR and GCMS analyses of phytoactive compounds in aqueous and methanol crude extracts of O. tenuiflorum showed the presence of OH stretching vibration, C = C stretching modes of aromatics and methylene rocking vibration; ring deformation mode with high levels of trans-β-ocimene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octatriene in aqueous extract and 4-methoxy-benzaldehyde, 1,3,5-trimethyl-cyclohexane and o-cymene in methanol extract. The percentage mortality upon exposure to methanol and aqueous extracts of O. tenuiflorum were 21.1% and 26.1% at 24 h, 27.8% and 36.1% at 48 h and 36.1% and 45% at 72 h respectively. Using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), down-regulation of ABC transporter, overexpression of CYP6M2, Hsp70, and α-esterase, coupled with significantly increased levels of SOD, CAT, and GSH, were observed in An. gambiae (s.s.) exposed to aqueous and methanol extracts of O. tenuiflorum as compared to the control. Findings from this study have significant implications for our understanding of how An. gambiae (s.s.) larvae detoxify phytoactive compounds.

Evaluation of the Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxicity Against MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Lines of &lt;i&gt;Phyllanthus emblica&lt;/i&gt; L. Bark Extract

Background: The euphorbiaceous plant family includes Phyllanthus emblica, which demonstrates a variety of pharmacological qualities. Aim: This study aims to investigate any potential medical benefits that the Phyllanthus emblica tree’s bark may have. Methods: An aqueous extract was made with sterile water, and alcohol-based extracts were obtained by macerating with 100% ethanol. Different extraction parameters were changed to evaluate their impact on polyphenol extraction, such as the concentrations of ethanol and aqueous extracts. The phosphomolybdate method was used to assess antioxidant activity and Total Phenol Content (TPC). Both ethanolic and aqueous extracts were found to have antibacterial activity against clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) was used to compare the extracts’ metabolite profiles. The MTT assay was employed to detect cell growth and survival, and the ethanolic bark extract showed potential cytotoxic action against the MCF 7 cancer cell line. Result: The results of the aforementioned tests showed that the ethanolic bark extract had greater antibacterial activity than the aqueous extract. Furthermore, the MTT assay showed that the ethanolic bark extract may have cytotoxic effects on the cancer cell line MCF 7. Conclusion: In summary, more research is necessary to completely understand the antibacterial and chemotherapeutic effects of the active ingredients, opening the door for their possible development as effective anticancer treatments.

Marching towards bioeconomy: Larvicidal effect of three indigenous plant extracts from Sri Lanka—Garcinia quaesita, Garcinia zeylanica, and Coleus hadiensis on dengue vector Aedes aegypti

AbstractBioeconomy would be a beneficial solution for funding through the rational use of finances and human resources in order to achieve better productivity and fruitfulness of mosquito control programs. Synthetic insecticides are widely used to repress mosquitoes. However, it instigates problems such as insecticide resistance among mosquitoes such as developing resistance, bio‐accumulation, and ecosystem destabilization. Natural plant‐based products are a healthy alternative to use as mosquito larvicides. The country has to spend a considerable cost for buying synthetic insecticides too. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate larvicidal efficacy of Garcinia zeylanica, Garcinia quaesita, and Coleus hadiensis against Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae. Fresh leaves of plants were collected, and the aqueous crude extract was prepared. Phytochemicals were extracted using refluxing technique. A concentration series of crude extract of leaves were prepared separately from 20 to 100 mg/L. Batches of each containing 100 third instar larvae of Ae. aegypti were used for larval bioassays. Ae. aegypti mosquito larvae were evaluated in accordance with the guidelines of World Health Organization. The experimental setup was repeated four times at each concentration. Probit analysis was used to evaluate the relationship of mortality with the concentration of aqueous crude extract. The G. zeylanica and G. quaesita leaf extracts showed a dose‐dependent effect against Ae. aegypti larvae after the 24 and 48 h exposure period. Interestingly, C. hadiensis did not show any dose‐dependent effect against A. aegypti mosquito larvae. The percentage mortality rates have shown a significant variance among different concentrations (P = 0.000). The recorded LC50 and LC90 for aqueous crude extract of G. zeylanica were 27.167 and 52.861 g/L, respectively, and LC50 and LC90 for aqueous crude extract of G. quaesita were 36.841 and 76.036 g/L, respectively, after 24 h of exposure period. The G. zeylanica and G. quaesita plant's high larvicidal activity is supported by the presence of phytochemicals such as saponins, steroids, flavonoids, and phenol, which showed combination effects in terms of larvicidal action to mosquito larvae. Hence, there is a potential of G. zeylanica and G. quaesita aqueous leaf extracts as a key source for the development of an environment‐friendly plant‐based larvicide against Ae. aegypti. Hence, this warrants vector control entities to re‐think “biological wealth for economic prosperity” with environmentally friendly country‐wide control approaches for medically important disease vectors.

Effect of Mammea americana Aqueous Extract on the Control of the Coffee Red Spider Mite

The coffee red spider mite, Oligonychus ilicis, stands out as one of the main pests of Conilon coffee. The use of synthetic chemical control has led to an increase in the population of this mite and a reduction in its natural enemies. Aiming to find viable alternatives, this study aimed to evaluate the acaricidal potential of “abricó” peel extract, Mammea americana, in the management of O. ilicis. Each treatment consisted of 7 repetitions, with 10 individuals per repetition. They were placed in Petri dishes (10.0 x 1.2 cm), containing coffee leaf disks (4 cm diameter) inside, and moistened cotton at the bottom of the dish and around the disks. The peels of M. americana were dried, crushed, and diluted in aqueous solution to obtain extracts at concentrations of 2; 2.57; 3.30; 4.24; 5.45; and 7 %. The application was done by spraying, using an Alfa 2 model airbrush connected to a compressor calibrated with a constant pressure of 1.3 psi. 1 mL of solution of each concentration was applied for each repetition. Distilled water and the surfactant Tween® 80 (0.05 % v/v) were used as control treatments. The acaricidal effect was evaluated 24, 48, and 72 hours after spraying, and the lethal concentrations LC50 and LC90 were calculated. The results of the toxicity tests indicated an increase in the mortality of O. ilicis with the increase in the concentrations of aqueous extracts of M. americana, resulting in 100 % mortality. The LC90 was estimated at 3.83 %. In the chemical analysis of the M. americana extract, the presence of phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids was observed at concentrations of 39.150, 40.783, and 0.0349 mg-1, respectively. We conclude that the aqueous extract of M. americana peels demonstrated acaricidal potential in a controlled environment for the coffee red spider mite.

Phytochemical screening, gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GCMS) analysis and molecular toxicological potential of Hunteria umbellata aqueous fruit extract against Staphylococcus aureus in accessory gene regulators (AGRs)

BackgroundFruits of Hunteria umbellata (HU) have been utilized in folk medicine as potent against Staphylococcus aureus (SA) infections, particularly skin and nasal related conditions. However, there is scarcity of literature concerning toxicological evaluation of graded doses of HU fruit, especially at molecular level, specifically targeting the accessory gene regulator (AGR) system to prevent abuse of doses in the treatment of bacterial infections. This research evaluated molecular toxicological property of SA exposed to varied concentrations of aqueous HU fruit extract ranging from 500 to 3.90625 µg/µL using broth microdilution method and quantification of AGR I and II genes’ expression employing two-step reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). We first identified quality and quantity of chemical compounds in aqueous fruit of HU using phytochemistry and hybrid gas chromatograph–mass spectrometer (GC–MS) technique. Additionally, preliminary bactericidal potential of HU was assessed before molecular toxicology.ResultsResults revealed six phytochemicals and twenty analytical grade compounds from a standard library were identified from chromatograms of HU fruit extract. Some main compounds detected are n-Hexadecanoic acid (25.24%), 2-Pentadecanone, 6,10,14-trimethyl (16.08%), Cuparene (16.63%), Tetradecanoic acid (6.21%) and 9-Octadecenoic acid, (E)- (5.70%). Bactericidal activity shows significant (p < 0.05) toxicity in the tested (8) concentrations of HU fruits in a dose-response relationship compared to the controls (positive and negative). The quantified expression of AGR I and II genes in SA was most significantly increased (p < 0.05) at both 250 and 500 µg/µL of HU fruit extract while least significant increase (p < 0.05) was recorded at 125 µg/µL compared to control.ConclusionsNotably, the study highlighted a potential risk of augmented bacterial infection especially with higher doses of HU extracts during boils’ treatment and other epidermal infections instigated by Staph. Expression of both AGR genes at higher doses (250 and 500 µg/µL) is indicative of further expression of several other genes responsible for virulence factors in a variety of human bacterial infections. Thus, consumption of HU fruit to treat boils and blisters should be with great caution especially at high doses.

In vivo anti-Salmonella properties of aqueous extract of prickly pear (Opuntia ficus indica) cladode, hepatological and toxicological evaluation.

The present study aimed to evaluate antidiarrheal potential of prickly pear cladode and its hepatoprotective role in different groups of diarrhea-induced mice. Mice received cefixime (4 mg/kg of bw) and different concentrations of aqueous cladode extract (250 mg/kg of bw, 500 mg/kg of bw and 1000 mg/kg of bw). Feces Salmonella typhi ATCC 19430 was used to assess antidiarrheal potential and hematological, biochemical parameters, and histopathological analyses were carried out for 17 days. The results showed that administration of Salmonella typhi ATCC 19430 in mice produced liver injuries with histological damage, whereas 1000 mg/kg of bw cladode extract reduced the Salmonella typhi ATCC 19430 load of feces earlier as compared to the other groups during 17 days. Hematological parameters, like red blood cells (RBCs) (6.19 ± 1.85 × 106/mm3) and hemoglobin (Hb) (10.06 ± 2.03 g/dL), of negative control group decreased, while white blood cells (WBCs) (13.46 × 106/mm3) increased from reference values. In lipid profile, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (9.0 ± 2.41 mg/dL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (6.07 ± 2.45 mg/dL) and total cholesterol (TC) (35.22 ± 8.29 mg/dL) of negative control group decreased, while triglycerides (TG) (168.35 ± 71.75 mg/dL) increased from reference values. Alanine transferase (ALT) (60.30 ± 20.33 IU/L), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (359.9 ± 100.05 IU/L) and aspartate transferase (AST) (168.77 ± 66.61 IU/L) of negative control group increased from reference values. Urea (27.36 ± 10.54 mmol/L) and creatinine (35.29 ± 12.15 mmol/L) of the negative control group increased. Cefixime also ameliorated injuries due to the administration of Salmonella typhi ATCC 19430. Conclusively, these findings indicated that pure aqueous extract of cladode showed more promising results regarding antidiarrheal potential. Hence, cladode might be used in food and supplement formulations as a functional ingredient.